MEDIA personality Sonia Kruger has responded to an avalanche of criticism after her call to ban Muslim migrants from Australia by saying she should be free to speak her mind without being labelled "a racist".

Kruger released a statement through Twitter on Monday afternoon defending her comments on the Today Show.

“Following the atrocities of last week in Nice where 10 children lost their lives, as a mother, I believe it’s vital in a democratic society to be able to discuss these issues without being labelled racist,” she said.

Ms Kruger, who hosts Today’s sister show Today Extra, said she had a lot of “peace-loving, beautiful Muslim friends”, but admitted she agreed with the controversial opinion piece.

“Personally, I would like to see it (Muslim migration) stop now for Australia,” she said.

She referred to Japan, a racially homogeneous country with a low proportion of Muslim migrants, and pointed out that they don't experience terror attacks by Islamic extremists.

“I want to feel safe, as all of our citizens do when they go out to celebrate Australia Day, and I’d like to see freedom of speech.”

[...]When asked by Lisa Wilkinson to clarify whether she was saying she would like Australian borders closed to Muslims at this point, Ms Kruger outright said: “Yes I would. For the safety of our citizens here, I think it’s important.”

Comically, Australia's own version of the ADL came out and viciously attacked Kruger as a prejudiced bigot:

“Banning anyone from entry to our country on the basis of their religion goes against long-standing Australian values of respect, inclusivity and religious freedom.

“Such singling out and demonising of Muslims is counterproductive and will only serve to foment fear and hatred. As we face the threat of radical islamist terror, we must avoid falling into the trap of blaming individuals and communities.

“Our nation is strengthened by diversity, and it is crucial that all leaders stand united in combatting any manifestations of bigotry and prejudice.”